Push the pace on climbs, let loose on the descents. This aluminium hardtail gives you a feel for the trail with balanced, confident handling and a plush suspension fork.
Push the pace on climbs, let loose on the descents. This aluminium hardtail gives you a feel for the trail with balanced, confident handling and a plush suspension fork.
Push the pace on climbs, let loose on the descents. This aluminium hardtail gives you a feel for the trail with balanced, confident handling and a plush suspension fork.
Push the pace on climbs, let loose on the descents. This aluminium hardtail gives you a feel for the trail with balanced, confident handling and a plush suspension fork.
Last updated at 10/28/2024 03:37:37
originally posted on giant-bicycles.com
Talon 1 29 Large Color: Desert SageThis bike is very attractive and really fast and confortable to ride.I had waited for this bike for several month checking the website and watching all the reviews in YouTube until I found one in a bike shop in Naples FL that is about 100 miles from Fort Lauderdale, all the process of buying, delivery and everything else was perfect, I didn't care about driving 200 miles round trip.Now let's talk about my disappointmentsFirst was that my bike came with the most basic Rockshok Judy fork, Coil Spring instead of the Giant Fork SXC32-RL Air rebound, beside the fork is straight tube not tapered, I can't understand why Giant make a brand new model 2021 and still using components from more than a decade ago, even Schwinn is making new ...Ā MoreTalon 1 29 Large Color: Desert SageThis bike is very attractive and really fast and confortable to ride.I had waited for this bike for several month checking the website and watching all the reviews in YouTube until I found one in a bike shop in Naples FL that is about 100 miles from Fort Lauderdale, all the process of buying, delivery and everything else was perfect, I didn't care about driving 200 miles round trip.Now let's talk about my disappointmentsFirst was that my bike came with the most basic Rockshok Judy fork, Coil Spring instead of the Giant Fork SXC32-RL Air rebound, beside the fork is straight tube not tapered, I can't understand why Giant make a brand new model 2021 and still using components from more than a decade ago, even Schwinn is making new bike with tapered tube forks.Second: the Crankset is bottom bracket cartridge stile (US Model) which is a very old technology that is still on very ship bicycles.Third: wheels aren't tubeless ready and comes with wire bead tires instead of folding tires.The bike comes with a decent 10 speed group set: shimano Deore Derailleur, Shifter and Cassette.The same with the Tektro Hydraulic brakes, they could be Shimano MT200.I really like the bike but I think that Giant didn't put the components that this beautiful bike deserve.Final thought; if you are a beginner rider and you're looking for a decent bicycle this is for you, but if you!
originally posted on giant-bicycles.com
Bike rode very nicely on various trails. Bike is comparably light even with the XL frame. I did however run into an issue with the air fork 1.3 years following purchase. The fork suspension collapsed and lost function. Unfortunately, I was away for military training and could not have the bike inspected. Giant is unwilling to replace the fork, which is disappointing, given this is my second Giant bike with issues.
originally posted on giant-bicycles.com
I bought this bike September of last year and put about 95 miles on it within two months. I had a long break and have put an extra 45 miles on it since August and it's still holding up great. I replaced the grips and pedals almost immediately because the factory ones were not good at all for the trails I ride. My one complaint is that the head tube is straight, and most forks nowadays are tapered, adding complexity to my goal of mulleting the bike. Other than that, it's an excellent bike and I highly recommend it. Shifting is smooth, brakes bite well enough for me and I don't feel any fade on my rides.
Talon 1 29 Large Color: Desert SageThis bike is very attractive and really fast and confortable to ride.I had waited for this bike for several month checking the website and watching all the reviews in YouTube until I found one in a bike shop in Naples FL that is about 100 miles from Fort Lauderdale, all the process of buying, delivery and everything else was perfect, I didn't care about driving 200 miles round trip.Now let's talk about my disappointmentsFirst was that my bike came with the most basic Rockshok Judy fork, Coil Spring instead of the Giant Fork SXC32-RL Air rebound, beside the fork is straight tube not tapered, I can't understand why Giant make a brand new model 2021 and still using components from more than a decade ago, even Schwinn is making new ...Ā MoreTalon 1 29 Large Color: Desert SageThis bike is very attractive and really fast and confortable to ride.I had waited for this bike for several month checking the website and watching all the reviews in YouTube until I found one in a bike shop in Naples FL that is about 100 miles from Fort Lauderdale, all the process of buying, delivery and everything else was perfect, I didn't care about driving 200 miles round trip.Now let's talk about my disappointmentsFirst was that my bike came with the most basic Rockshok Judy fork, Coil Spring instead of the Giant Fork SXC32-RL Air rebound, beside the fork is straight tube not tapered, I can't understand why Giant make a brand new model 2021 and still using components from more than a decade ago, even Schwinn is making new bike with tapered tube forks.Second: the Crankset is bottom bracket cartridge stile (US Model) which is a very old technology that is still on very ship bicycles.Third: wheels aren't tubeless ready and comes with wire bead tires instead of folding tires.The bike comes with a decent 10 speed group set: shimano Deore Derailleur, Shifter and Cassette.The same with the Tektro Hydraulic brakes, they could be Shimano MT200.I really like the bike but I think that Giant didn't put the components that this beautiful bike deserve.Final thought; if you are a beginner rider and you're looking for a decent bicycle this is for you, but if you!
Bike rode very nicely on various trails. Bike is comparably light even with the XL frame. I did however run into an issue with the air fork 1.3 years following purchase. The fork suspension collapsed and lost function. Unfortunately, I was away for military training and could not have the bike inspected. Giant is unwilling to replace the fork, which is disappointing, given this is my second Giant bike with issues.
I bought this bike September of last year and put about 95 miles on it within two months. I had a long break and have put an extra 45 miles on it since August and it's still holding up great. I replaced the grips and pedals almost immediately because the factory ones were not good at all for the trails I ride. My one complaint is that the head tube is straight, and most forks nowadays are tapered, adding complexity to my goal of mulleting the bike. Other than that, it's an excellent bike and I highly recommend it. Shifting is smooth, brakes bite well enough for me and I don't feel any fade on my rides.
I just bought this bike today as part of a trade in. Iāll be taking it on its first taste of dirt later today, but I was so excited to write about my buying experience. As always, Mark and the gang at the South Bay shop were total professionals. Mark made sure the trade in process went smoothly as I test rode the Talon 1 in both wheel sizes. I chose the 29er because it seems to roll a bit more smoothly than the 27.5. I chose to go with the Talon 1 because of the air fork and 1x. Entry level parts have come such a long way since I started riding in 1995. At least on my test ride, the suspension fork feels great once the rebound is set, and the shifting and braking were spot on. I really canāt wait to hit the trail on this bike. Thank you, Bicycle Warehouse, for ...Ā MoreI just bought this bike today as part of a trade in. Iāll be taking it on its first taste of dirt later today, but I was so excited to write about my buying experience. As always, Mark and the gang at the South Bay shop were total professionals. Mark made sure the trade in process went smoothly as I test rode the Talon 1 in both wheel sizes. I chose the 29er because it seems to roll a bit more smoothly than the 27.5. I chose to go with the Talon 1 because of the air fork and 1x. Entry level parts have come such a long way since I started riding in 1995. At least on my test ride, the suspension fork feels great once the rebound is set, and the shifting and braking were spot on. I really canāt wait to hit the trail on this bike. Thank you, Bicycle Warehouse, for another great experience. You guys really are the ONLY bike shop worth going to in San Diego! P.S. The brown paint job is waaaay prettier in person. The photos on the web really donāt do it justice.
Bike is great and I would recommend it however, so far there is zero aftermarket parts support for the sxc32-2.Giant refuses to provide technical specifications for the sxc32-2 air fork such as parts lists and fork oil weights/measurements. Meaning you are required to get scalped by a giant retailer with repair costs.This is unfortunate because I would like to support giant more, but until they change their anti-repair policy stance. I cannot support this company.
I did tons of research then rode this bike and the Trek in comparable price range. The ride and air shock had me convinced, then that Desert Sage sealed the deal. I am 70. I am a former bike shop owner and have been riding all my life. First of all, the frame fit me perfectly. I usually ride XL frames but at my age, I feel safer on the large. I am 6' tall. This large has enough reach and a safer stand over height. I changed the pedals right away. Lastly. I use a bike rack on the back of my car these days. The top tube width fits perfectly on the Allen rack. My Cannondale is too fat. Little things matter.As a shop owner, I used to try and put the new owner on the best bike for them and so often they would choose color over function! Used to drive me crazy. The way ...Ā MoreI did tons of research then rode this bike and the Trek in comparable price range. The ride and air shock had me convinced, then that Desert Sage sealed the deal. I am 70. I am a former bike shop owner and have been riding all my life. First of all, the frame fit me perfectly. I usually ride XL frames but at my age, I feel safer on the large. I am 6' tall. This large has enough reach and a safer stand over height. I changed the pedals right away. Lastly. I use a bike rack on the back of my car these days. The top tube width fits perfectly on the Allen rack. My Cannondale is too fat. Little things matter.As a shop owner, I used to try and put the new owner on the best bike for them and so often they would choose color over function! Used to drive me crazy. The way the bike looks is really important. I know that now. This Desert Sage is beautiful.This will probably be my last bike. I couldn't be happier!
Short and sweet review:I am a rider coming back from a hiatus. I recommend this bike to beginners/hiatus riders who are on a budget but want a brand new bike like me. I welcome criticism and invite Giant to consider this review for reply and for the future development of their best selling bike.Bad: bike is heavy for size small, fork contributes to weight and not good that many reviewers state damper failures, lastly maybe just a single case but my brakes kept rubbing even after bleeding and adjusting multiple times (upgraded brakes, did not warranty).Good: SUPERB handling, drivetrain shifts great but needs lower climbing gears, ease of maintenance/upgrades (repair at your own risk, do not void your warranties), black/blue color is great. Good outweighed the ...Ā MoreShort and sweet review:I am a rider coming back from a hiatus. I recommend this bike to beginners/hiatus riders who are on a budget but want a brand new bike like me. I welcome criticism and invite Giant to consider this review for reply and for the future development of their best selling bike.Bad: bike is heavy for size small, fork contributes to weight and not good that many reviewers state damper failures, lastly maybe just a single case but my brakes kept rubbing even after bleeding and adjusting multiple times (upgraded brakes, did not warranty).Good: SUPERB handling, drivetrain shifts great but needs lower climbing gears, ease of maintenance/upgrades (repair at your own risk, do not void your warranties), black/blue color is great. Good outweighed the bad. I set expectations for myself that I will change parts to my liking.Detailed (pro-yapper) review:This is a frank and honest review. I really think this bike is an excellent option for beginners or riders who have been on a hiatus and are coming back to the sport. I am that rider who came back from a riding hiatus and injuries. I am no pro at all, just passionate. I wanted to buy a new bike for once in my life and get back into MTB again after some jobless months and injury recovery. I have a '22 Talon 1 27.5" in size small. This is my 6 month review.Fair warning: I am a detailed and highly fixated person. I like to get down and deep into stuff. I think it's fair that anyone should know all they can know about something, so here we go! Also I changed the OE tires out right away to tubeless ready tires. I've also upgraded the entire drivetrain a little later on. I've also installed a dropper seat post. I have made said upgrades to suit my preferences. Please note I am financially irresponsible and I could've spent it on a Fathom, but at least I'm not spending my money on drugs. Also, my good news outweighed the bad. I set expectations for myself that I will encounter problems (though this time it was quite a few) and upgrade as I go. I will also not be providing pictures of my bike as it does have stickers of the shop I bought it from and would like to protect my identity and the identity of the shop employees.Bad news: I understand this is a Talon, so you can take what I say with a grain of salt. This bike is HEAVY. I weighed it in at 32 lbs in its OE form in size small. I understand this is not an XTC, but I have owned an older Talon that had a lighter ALUXX frame and frankly worse components. My 2017 Talon 3 (size small) weighed the same with an SR Suntour XCM fork and a 3x8 drivetrain. If you don't mind the weight, you'll be fine. In fact, your legs will likely get swole if you ride this bike a lot.To be honest, I've just been spoiled by other bikes that were sold in the same or similar price bracket that are lighter (2017 Talon 3, 2008 Kona Cinder Cone). I have gotten tubeless tires installed and made a few upgrades already and weight only dropped it to 30 lbs.To compare, my friend has a '22 Giant Reign 2 (enduro bike with 160/170mm travel). It weighs 29 lbs in OE form. It still is completely stock. I am honestly amazed at this. If this is an issue for you, seek another model to get more bang for your buck. I'm broke so I chose the Talon 1. You get what you pay for. I just wish Giant looked to the Talons of yesteryear and developed the frames to be closer in weight (I also understand the difficulties of developing and producing a bike during the pandemic, which is why my rating is at 4-stars because I try to be an understanding person). I welcome criticism and invite Giant to reply and consider this review in the future development of their best selling model.I am also not a fan of the fork, I haven't broken my damper (yet). I also predict the high-ish weight of the bike is partly contributed to the steel fork steerer tube (the front end of the bike feels heavier than the rear, usually the opposite on my other bikes). I am noticing my fork bushings are wiggling under braking after 6 months. I am already considering a fork upgrade. The many damper failures that have been mentioned in other reviews also makes me uneasy. Other than that, it's easy to set up PSI and rebound adjustments for rider weight and preference (there's a weight chart on the fork).Lastly, I mention this one and ask you to take this with a grain of salt as I didn't see this issue in other reviews. My Tektro brakes had rubbing issues (in the shop it was called "piston advance"). The pads would rub on the rotors (heavily) before and after adjustment. I also got the brakes bled. I got tired of having to constantly repair this problem so I changed my brakes out to a higher quality set from a different brand and all my issues are now gone. I did not want to take a chance getting the same ones under warranty. If you have these issues I would HIGHLY recommend changing them out entirely just for your safety.However, if you are not like me and do not plan to be training and competing on this bike, most of these problems (except the brakes) will frankly not be a huge problem. After all, no bike, even a dream bike, is perfect. Again, the good outweighs the bad here.Good news: When I used to race, I had a Ridley Ignite C27 (carbon hardtail). It was my dream build and I no longer have it. I say all of that because this Talon handles similarly (if not, surprisingly BETTER) than that bike. It is nothing short of confidence inspiring. It is stable on most types of trails (I ride mostly XC blue trails, this isn't an enduro bike). It also climbs pretty well despite its heavy weight. In its stock form, I had realized all of these things. I still recommend putting on your preferred set of tires, grips, set your fork/tire PSI, and other upgrades to make things better for you as it did for me. Handling skill obviously helps as well.Also, the geometry (ergonomics) helps in handling. The slack head tube angle and long reach slows the steering and lengthens the wheelbase a quite a bit compared to geometry of old. Short stem and wide bars are great, I cut mine down to 730mm (I am fun sized). I'm a fan!The Shimano Deore drivetrain is very good and shifts well. I just wish Giant stocked the 11-46 cassette. I cannot vouch for durability because I changed the entire drivetrain to another brand down the line to add more climbing range and lighten the bike.This bike is a great bike to learn to fix bikes on/upgrade. This might be for a select crowd, but I am glad Giant kept some older standards on this bike for ease of maintenance and installation of upgrades. I love building my bikes; having a straight steerer, 73 mm threaded BB, and QR wheels makes replacements/upgrades easy and affordable. Repair at your own risk, I cant afford to be sued. Also, please don't void your warranties. At least know if your repairs will/will not void the warranty on frame and parts. Otherwise, just have a reputable shop do your repairs.Lastly, I am a simple man when it comes to design. Giant did the black/blue color-way right on this bike. There are not many complicated shapes to make it look flashy. Blue is my favorite color after all.I expect to have this bike for a short time, I will be upgrading soon to another Giant šš. If this review isn't removed then expect another yap level 9000 review for the next bike!Cheers and blessings!!!
The bike is a great choice if you take care of it properly. The crankset and disc brakes both rusted because I didn't take care of the bike properly. Over all though the bike is a great choice to ride. If you want to ride in the woods, the suspension is perfect for beginner-amauture. If you are riding on the road, the lock out suspension is perfect for maintaining speed. This particular bike is over all the best choice even if you are riding on around 10 foot jumps. I am very proud of the excellent choice I made on choosing this bike. So far I havnt seen any malfunctions that wasn't user error. I have crashed many times and some very bad crashes and the bike was completely fine. If you are looking for a high quality bike, I would buy this one even for beginners and ...Ā MoreThe bike is a great choice if you take care of it properly. The crankset and disc brakes both rusted because I didn't take care of the bike properly. Over all though the bike is a great choice to ride. If you want to ride in the woods, the suspension is perfect for beginner-amauture. If you are riding on the road, the lock out suspension is perfect for maintaining speed. This particular bike is over all the best choice even if you are riding on around 10 foot jumps. I am very proud of the excellent choice I made on choosing this bike. So far I havnt seen any malfunctions that wasn't user error. I have crashed many times and some very bad crashes and the bike was completely fine. If you are looking for a high quality bike, I would buy this one even for beginners and semi pros.
This bike is a great bike in many ways. I love the Deore shifters. They are smooth and very responsive. The wide cockpit allows for a great deal of control on the trail. The only downfall of the bike is the fact that you may get one of two different suspension forks on your bike. Either a Rock Shox Judy, Coil spring,SXC32-2 RL 29 or SXC32-2 RL 27.5 air spring, when you research the bike the air fork is the that is out there in most videos and I feel is the better fork. All Talon 1's should come which the air fork. This is misleading in a way. Maybe with production problems due to COVID this may be the only way they could get bikes in the pipeline? I do love the bike but I would love tho be riding a version of the bike with Giants air fork on it. I would highly ...Ā MoreThis bike is a great bike in many ways. I love the Deore shifters. They are smooth and very responsive. The wide cockpit allows for a great deal of control on the trail. The only downfall of the bike is the fact that you may get one of two different suspension forks on your bike. Either a Rock Shox Judy, Coil spring,SXC32-2 RL 29 or SXC32-2 RL 27.5 air spring, when you research the bike the air fork is the that is out there in most videos and I feel is the better fork. All Talon 1's should come which the air fork. This is misleading in a way. Maybe with production problems due to COVID this may be the only way they could get bikes in the pipeline? I do love the bike but I would love tho be riding a version of the bike with Giants air fork on it. I would highly recommend the Talon 1 just be aware of the two different versions and know when you order that you may get two different suspension forks.
Pretty good quality and reasonably cheap for the quality of the bike. Air shock is alright for standard sized jumps. Probably upgrade but still good. Only thing that is a bit sad is that it didn't include dropper post. But overall pretty good MTB.
